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Josee and Ben’s day was truly beautiful. Making their way from a relaxed morning of getting ready, the bridal party arrived (just a little late!) at the church. The weather was gorgeous, sunshine lit Josee and her father’s path as they paused slightly before heading down the aisle. Having been told that I was only allowed to capture the ceremony from the back, I knew that I had to get creative, so during hymns I would move around quietly to the side and slide into the aisle, there was also a side room that was free and I managed to capture a few shots from inside there - it’s always a good thing to check when you get married in a Church. The wishes of the Priest differ massively depending on Church and how strict they are. One extreme example - I was allowed to take pictures but only from outside of the main door!

We moved quickly through the family photos and confetti throw as it was cold and the reception venue was an hours drive away, which is unusual, but trust me it was worth it!

Arriving at Ashdown Park, it was obvious that all the excitement of Christmas was embraced by the couple. From the reindeer decorations and hot coco station to the twinkly fairy lights and all the Christmas trees that were dotted around the venue, the Christmas spirit was strong, and these lovebirds looked perfectly at home underneath the massive tree in the foyer.

The main wow factor though was the reception room. Walking up the stairs, the reveal of the room took your breath away; with its vaulted ceilings, massive ornate organ and its stunning stained glass windows it truly was a talking point. Josee said this room was the main reason they booked the venue and took the hours drive to get there. Boy was it worth it!

“Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

Hollie and Tony’s big day was on the most beautiful late summers afternoon. The sun was beaming down on Nonsuch mansion, a beautiful Georgian house set in Nonsuch Park in Ewell, the long shadows and warmth of the lowering sun set the relaxed and laid back mood of their day.

They really wanted their photography focused on their guests, their moments and the mood. Not too keen on getting ready shots or anything past the meal, they went for a few hours of photography coverage. Arriving at a venue I normally capture details first before any guests take over! Some venues it can be hard to get inspired, but the details here were beautiful, really quirky and a pleasure to capture. From the stained glass accents in the ceremony room to the clock tower, from the beautiful flowers to the bake-off-style desert table, I loved getting their venues details.

As the guests arrived in their summer dresses, the low sun shone into the ceremony room creating the most beautiful shadows and contrasts between light and dark, it was a blessing that these contrasts missed head level otherwise that can be really tricky during the vows especially if the bride is in bright sun and the groom in shadow - thankfully the light fell in my favour!

After the “I do’s” we headed off for the couple photos. Nonsuch Mansion is set in park grounds with a section zoned off for wedding use, we ventured out of this area a little just to get a bit more privacy for the couple images away from their guests. Focused on having fun with their friends and family we made this a short walk around the grounds so they could spend the majority of time with their guests. What a fab day; a beautifully chilled summertime wedding and a perfect representation of a laid back couple.

“Summertime, and the living is easy”

Planning your late summer wedding? I’d love to hear from you, why not get in contact!